By Bill Corliss

Fog, snow, ice, and rain do not cause car crashes. Drivers’ behaviors and lack of adjustments cause crashes in these conditions. Rain gets very little respect from the driving community. Driving in the rain is high risk, yet the perception is that not much of a change has taken place. As a result, the chances of a crash in the rain are five times higher than when driving in ideal conditions.

Risk factors during wet weather increase as visibility and traction are reduced. It is difficult to see and to be seen. Traction is reduced, not only from water on the road but also from the oil and dirt mixture that has accumulated over dry periods of weather. Even on a vehicle with good tread depth on tires that are properly inflated, hydroplaning can begin at 35 mph with only 1/12 of an inch of water on a road.

There are many ways to lower your risk when driving on water-covered roads. The most important component is the attitude of the driver.

You can prepare the vehicle to be driven safely in the rain. Make sure the tires have good tread depth. Tire inflation is also critical to car handling. Have these checked at each car servicing. These two factors will provide maximum traction. Also, make sure your windows are clean and the windshield wiper blades are in good repair. The defroster and air conditioner need to work well. The headlights should be checked. These elements provide you with your best visibility.

Time and Space

Another component of lowering driving risk in the rain is controlled by the driver’s behavior behind the wheel. Avoid quick stops and starts. To accomplish this, increase your normal following distance and reduce the vehicle’s speed to accommodate moderate braking to stop the car. The 2009 California Driver Handbook lists the basic speed adjustment for rain as 5 to 10 mph below the legal maximum speed limit. Leaving early is a simple way to lower risk during inclement weather. You’ll eliminate the need for speeding, tailgating, or hurrying at a stale green signal light.

Intersections are unusually dangerous when wet. Cars that wait at red lights increase oil levels in these areas, making these crossroads much more slippery. To avoid hard braking at the intersection, anticipate the change of a green light sooner. Trying to make the light by accelerating is extremely risky.

Shed Some Light

Finally, drive with the low beam headlights on so other drivers will see you sooner. In California it is now law that a vehicle’s headlights must be on if the windshield wipers are in use.

Be safe when the roads are wet. Adjust to the fact that the road conditions are not normal and that you need to make some adjustments to minimize the potential of a crash.